The Duke of Kent has spent a day in Redbridge, visiting a centre for rough sleepers, seeing students perform in the new theatre at Redbridge College, and viewing progress on the Crossrail Elizabeth Line.

The Duke first visited the Welcome Centre, which provides support and shelter for up to 50 homeless people each day. The Duke was able to meet some of the Centre's clients, and see first-hand how they are being supported by the on-site medical and support teams.

The Duke then spent time meeting students at Redbridge College, and watched part of a rehearsal in their new Box Theatre. The students performed a vocal warm up in preparation of the scene they will perform at the Mayor's Educational Conference at City Hall in June.

Gerry McDonald, Group Principal and CEO of New City College said, “I am delighted to welcome The Duke of Kent to our college today and to have the opportunity to lead him on a tour of our facilities. It is a wonderful experience for our students to be given the opportunity to showcase their talents and ambitions during the visit.”

Later, The Duke stopped off at Ilford depot in Redbridge to see the progress being made on TfL's Elizabeth Line and how the line will benefit the local area. In addition to meeting staff and engineers, The Duke was able to experience being a driver on the line when he took a turn on TfL's train simulator.

Councillor Gurdial Bhamra, The Mayor of Redbridge said, “It’s very exciting to have The Duke of Kent visit Redbridge, it truly shows that the reputation of the Borough is spreading – this visit is an important way to showcase how we assist residents in need, how we educate and ensure growth in our community, and also how Redbridge is playing a crucial role in the Elizabeth Line – a line named after The Duke’s cousin Queen Elizabeth.”